Start by listing your monthly income and essential costs, such as rent, bills, food and travel, then work out what remains for savings, debt repayments and non-essentials. You can budget for free using a spreadsheet, notebook or free budgeting app, checking your bank statements to make your figures realistic. Review your spending weekly and adjust categories if your circumstances change. MoneyHelper’s free budget planner on GOV.UK can also help you organise your figures and identify areas where you may be able to cut back.